OAA Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 25 at 8:45 AM

Boys

1. Clarkston 12-3: When Quinn Rosenburg shoots threes look out.

2. Avondale 10-6: What happened against North Farmington, Yellow Jackets???

3. Groves 11-4: Falcons still not a finished product, trying to figure out the Summit Academy loss.

4. Oxford 14-0: Wildcats have been rolling but they haven't had a close game yet.

5. Lake Orion 11-5: Dragons didn't have their best against Troy, good teams finds ways to win.

6. Farmington 12-4: Falcons have responded nicely since the M-24 trips.

7. Rochester 11-4: Falcons have been really impressing me lately.

8. Pontiac 8-5: Phoenix have their biggest test looming.

9. Ferndale 6-10: Eden Vinyard has been on a tear lately.

10. North Farmington 7-8: Raiders have been up and down lately.

11. Troy 7-8: Colts have been playing much better basketball lately.

12. Royal Oak 7-7: Something feels different about this Ravens team.

13. West Bloomfield 5-9: Lakers defense is still a major concern.

14. Bloomfield Hills 9-5: Blackhawks starting to turn things around.

15. Stoney Creek 7-7: Cougars haven't been able to put it together yet.

16. Adams 3-12: Highlanders have played a tough schedule, better than their record indicates.

17. Troy Athens 4-11: When Nate Appledorn shoots threes look out.

18. Ferndale University 7-8: Eagles will be fine despite tough loss.

19. Southfield Arts and Tech 5-11: Warriors have been an odd team to figure out.

20. Seaholm 1-13: This article by Hometown Life's Brandon Folsom explains the Maples. https://www.hometownlife.com/story/sports/2025/01/23/birmingham-seaholm-boys-basketball-loses-to-lake-orion-65-46/77830883007/

21. Oak Park 4-5: Knights have been struggling lately.

22. Berkley 3-12: Bears are going through it right now.

23. Harper Woods 3-9: Andre Cast has a lot of potential for the Pioneers.

Girls

1. Clarkston 9-5: Brooklyn Covert is the key to the Wolves season.

2. Avondale 10-2: Sasha McClellan has been on a tear lately.

3. West Bloomfield 7-5: Sheridan Beal has been on a tear lately.

4. Rochester 8-3: Falcons may have found that guard in Taylor Parsons.

5. Stoney Creek 8-3: Merrick Schlawbach is the key to the Cougars season.

6. Lake Orion 9-5: Even when under the weather Izzy Wotlinski finds ways to score.

7. Seaholm 9-3: Maples no longer control their destiny right now.

8. Berkley 9-4: 74 points after a tough loss to Lake Orion, jeez.

9. Ferndale 5-7: Eagles lack of depth starting to become an issue.

10. Adams 6-6: Jordan Jarrell has been the key to the Highlanders success.

11. Oxford 4-9: Wildcats have been up and down lately.

12. Royal Oak 5-6: Ravens have lost a ton of close games lately.

13. Southfield Arts and Tech 7-5: Warriors defense is still an issue.

14. Ferndale University 7-4; Eagles clearly a better team than last season.

15. Troy Athens 6-7: Red Hawks are a classic Scooby Doo team.

16. Troy 3-8: Nadia Auger has been making an impact lately.

17. Bloomfield Hills 3-6: Brianna Young really carrying Blackhawks right now.

18. Groves 2-9: Falcons are really struggling right now.

19. Pontiac 5-3: Getting a week off should help the Phoenix.

20. Harper Woods 5-4: Can't really figure the Pioneers out right now.

21. North Farmington 4-9: Raiders got a nice win over Corunna.

22. Farmington 3-9: Falcons haven't been themselves as of late.

23. Oak Park 0-6: Knights really struggling right now.

Clarkston has a new Softball Coach.

Written Thursday January 23rd at 4:25 PM

Clarkston softball will have a new softball coach this spring.

The Wolves named Melissa Smythe as their new coach, she takes over for Coach Katie Smith who stepped down after going 7-25 last season.

Clarkston has not been the same softball program since the pandemic. The Wolves are 21-44 in three seasons, something that Smythe needs to turn around.

Smythe was the junior varsity coach at Clarkston for two years and has been coaching softball for 12 years according to the press release.

"Melissa is looking forward to coaching Clarkston student athletes at the Varsity level and continuing  the growth and development of the softball program while fostering a positive and supportive team culture" the press release said.

The Wolves will be in the Red with Division One runner up and arch rival Lake Orion, along with Oxford, North Farmington, Stoney Creek, Adams, Bloomfield Hills, and West Bloomfield. They will be in a district at Oxford that has Lake Orion, Oxford, Waterford Kettering, and Waterford Mott as well.

It will be really interesting to see what Smythe brings to Clarkston and can she be the one that turns the program around???

Here is the press release from X

https://x.com/CTownAthletic/status/1882491729582174457/photo/1

OAA Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 18th at 9:13 AM

Here are the top 23.

Boys 

1. Avondale 9-5: Yellow Jackets proving they belong in the Red.

2. Groves 10-3: Despite tough loss to Ferndale the Falcons will be fine.

3. Clarkston 11-3: It's great to see the Wolves play at Clarkston Junior High.

4. Oxford 13-0: Wildcats struggled a bit against Troy Athens, tough matchups await them.

5. Lake Orion 9-5: Zack Parks is a machine, ask Pontiac Notre Dame Prep.

6. North Farmington 6-7: Raiders need someone besides Rob Smith to step up.

7. Farmington 10-4: Falcons bounced back after two tough losses with a win over Oak Park.

8. Ferndale 6-9: Eagles climbing back after tough losses early.

9. Pontiac 7-5: Phoenix control their own destiny in the Blue.

10. Rochester 9-4: Wondering is Jake Tandy back???

11. West Bloomfield 5-8: Ah defense Lakers???

12. Stoney Creek 7-5: Cougars have been getting contributions from others lately.

13. Bloomfield Hills 8-5: Blackhawks seem to have figured some things out.

14. Troy 7-7: Congrats Mason Parker on 1,000 career points.

15. Adams 3-11: Have to admire the Highlanders heart and courage with what they went through.

16. Royal Oak 5-7: Ravens starting to get back to bad habits again.

17. Ferndale University 7-6: Eagles are a perfect Jekyll and Hyde team.

18. Troy Athens 3-10: Red Hawks have scored 53 points in two games, not good.

19. Seaholm 1-11: Maples are better than their record indicates, ask Troy.

20. Southfield Arts and Tech 4-10: Warriors got a much needed win against Wyoming Lee.

21. Oak Park 4-4: Knights are really struggling right now.

22. Berkley 3-10: Bears have really been struggling.

23. Harper Woods 3-8: Pioneers are really struggling right now.

 

Girls

1. Clarkston 8-5: Wolves showing their depth, why they could be tough to beat.

2. Avondale 8-2: Yellow Jackets have been humming recently.

3. Seaholm 9-2: Maples felt some adversity but have so far managed to overcome them.

4. West Bloomfield 6-5: Lakers starting to turn the corner.

5. Rochester 6-3: Congrats Alice Max on scoring 1,000 career points.

6. Stoney Creek 7-2: Cougars have been up and down recently.

7. Berkley 8-3: Bears have been looking really impressive.

8. Lake Orion 8-5: Dragons need someone besides Izzy Wotlinski to step up scoring wise.

9. Ferndale 4-7: Welcome to the Red, Eagles.

10. Oxford 3-8: Wildcats been building their depth despite tough losses.

11. Royal Oak 5-4: Ravens starting to turn things around since loss to Clarkston.

12. Adams 5-6: Horrible officiating doomed Highlanders in their loss to Harper Woods.

13. Southfield Arts and Tech 6-5: Defense is starting to turn around a little bit.

14. Ferndale University 6-4: Eagles are my most improved team this season.

15. Troy Athens 6-5: I can't figure the Red Hawks out.

16. Troy 2-8: Colts have been struggling, they are better than their record indicates.

17. Bloomfield Hills 2-6: Blackhawks have had things rough lately.

18. Groves 2-8: Falcons need that third scorer especially in the interior to step up.

19. Pontiac 5-3: Phoenix have won three straight, building some confidence.

20. Harper Woods 5-3: Pioneers starting to turn things around a little bit.

21. North Farmington 3-8: Raiders still grinding despite rough stretch.

22. Farmington 3-8: Falcons have had some struggles recently.

23. Oak Park 0-4: Not playing in a week but still 38 points in four games is rough.

Ferndale has their new Football Coach.

Written Tuesday January 15th at 8:30 AM

Updated Wednesday January 22nd at 11:45 AM

The Eagles have their new varsity football coach.

Ferndale named Donovan Jackson as their new coach. He takes over for Coach Erik Royal who stepped down in the offseason.

The move was confirmed by The D-Zone.

The Eagles lost a ton of senior leadership after making the postseason in Royal's final season with the program. They lost in the first round to Groves.

Jackson is a Ferndale Alum, having graduated in 2012. According to Maxpreps, he was the running back and defensive back for the Eagles. He also played at Detroit Loyola as well. He was an assistant at Detroit Cass Tech when they won the Division One State Championship last season.

Jackson will have a big challenge ahead of him at Ferndale, replacing a ton of talent and building program strength. It will be very interesting to see what Jackson brings to the Eagles. Also there has to be a transition period and it has to happen during the season.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

The tweet from The D-Zone

https://x.com/TheD_Zone/status/1878833678975123492

Girls Basketball Districts-Updated

Written Tuesday June 11th at 12:20 AM

Updated Saturday February 1st at 2:32 PM

This article will be updated very often with the most updated information.

Here is the formula how the district works.

https://www.mhsaa.com/sites/default/files/MPR/2024-25/FINAL-BB.pdf?time=1738430848271

District 22 @ Livonia Stevenson

FARMINGTON

Farmington Hills Mercy

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Farmington Hills Mercy, 2. Livonia Stevenson, 3. Redford Thurston, 4. Livonia Franklin, 5. Farmington.

FAVORITE: Farmington Hills Mercy

NEXT: Livonia Stevenson

DARKHORSE: Redford Thurston

PLAYER ON SPOT: Aizlyn Albanese- Farmington Hills Mercy.

INSIGHT: This looks to be a very interesting district. Farmington could get some big points being the favorite in the Gold but they have some questions coming into this district. The Falcons have Edimari King, Alexis Gebs, Emma Mohr, Anna Toranchuk, Grace Lamott, Gaia Demeester, Mya Jones, Sydney Nogas, and Kate Martin coming back for Coach Natalie Nowak. Farmington Hills Mercy had a very young group from last season that won 12 games and was competitive with West Bloomfield for a half before falling 68-39 to the Lakers in the district finals. The Marlins have Aizlyn Albanese, Kate Samulak, Emily Walker, Caroline Paluk, Emily Cuthbertson, Naimah Kellum, Jessica Heath, Abby Bores, Elle Geerlings, Avery Birkett, and Nora Gerzema coming back for Coach Gary Morris. Livonia Stevenson won 13 games last season. They have a new coach in Alison Hidey. Hidey came from Groves this offseason. The Spartans have Isabella Claramont, Carly Piergentili, Samantha McCloud, Hailey Gordon, Lauren Olson, Kennedy Hinkle, Madison Lowrly, Gabby Yancura, Isabella Sapia, Hannah Tamou, and Ella Stoops coming back for Hidey. Livonia Franklin was really young last season. The Patriots have Tessa White, Kingsley Nordbeck, Sammy Carignan, Sydney Kenyon, Calie Bates, Aubree Ostrokie, Breann Campbell, and Summer Montgomery coming back for Coach Colleen Flaherty. Redford Thurston has a new girls basketball coach in Princess Scott taking over the program. Scott was an assistant and moves up to be the new coach. This district looks like it will be the Marlins to lose.

DISTRICT UPDATE: Overall I don't really see any changes to the top three seeds. Livonia Franklin trails Redford Thurston at the moment. Farmington is locked in as the five seed despite being one of the favorites in the Gold. Farmington Hills Mercy is the favorite for now but Livonia Stevenson is right there with them and has a shot to pass them and get the top seed.

ANALYST UPDATE: This district is pretty much set. Livonia Franklin and Farmington will likely meet as the four and five seeds in the first round while that winner plays Farmington Hills Mercy in what will be a really difficult matchup in the district semifinals. Livonia Stevenson and Redford Thurston are locked to play each other in the district semifinals. Overall no changes with the likely matchup being the Marlins and the Spartans in the district finals.

 

District 23 @ Detroit Renaissance

OAK PARK

Detroit Renaissance

Detroit Mumford

Hamtramck

Warren Fitzgerald

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Detroit Renaissance, 2. Detroit Mumford, 3. Warren Fitzgerald, 4. Hamtramck, 5. Oak Park.

FAVORITE: Detroit Renaissance

NEXT: Detroit Mumford

DARKHORSE: Hamtramck

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ceniyah Williams- Detroit Mumford.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district in Detroit. Oak Park was really young last season. The Knights have Mackenzie Blake, Madison Johnson-Williams, Sienna Walker, and Gabrielle Lee coming back for Coach Tyler Washington.Warren Fitzgerald won 21 games last season. They made the move to Division One with an increase in school enrollment. The Spartans have Lyric Pannel, Meghan Diles, Kaylunn Millander, Asia Bowman, Amani Thomas, Shavon Williams, Casundra Smith, Iyanna Smith, Sabrina Watson, and Taylor McCants coming back for Coach Juwan Shakespear. Detroit Mumford won five games despite having a really tough schedule last season. The Mustangs have Ceniyah Williams and Cherish Jefferson coming back for Coach Kareem Hogan. Detroit Renaissance had a strong season but fell to West Bloomfield in the regional semifinals last season and will look to have a bounce back year this season. The Phoenix have Alehia Wade, Aryana Denham, Victorya Gambles, Aarion Vinson, Jaebrian Autry, Marhea Bradshaw, and Imani Johnson coming back for Coach DaShaun Wood. Hamtramck had a really rough year winning one game for Coach Courtney Jackson, this district could be worse for the Cosmos this season. Detroit Renaissance looks to be the favorite in this district but Detroit Mumford and Warren Fitzgerald could have strong says.

DISTRICT UPDATE: Based on the MPR rankings, they were really surprising when I seen this district. I've been really impressed with Hamtramck winning ten games and getting a ton of confidence so they moved up two spots to the three seed. I also moved Warren Fitzgerald to the four seed with their recent struggles which means Detroit Mumford moves to the two seed despite not playing a ton of games. Oak Park is locked into the five seed. Overall no one in this district is beating Detroit Renaissance.

ANALYST UPDATE: There are really no changes to this district when it comes to the seeds. Detroit Renaissance is locked into the top seed and will await Oak Park or Hamtramck in the district semifinals. The Cosmos have been in a bit of a funk but they have a chance to pass Warren Fitzgerald and not have to play on that Monday but the Spartans have played a more tougher schedule and they could give Detroit Mumford some fits in the district semifinals. Either way still no one is touching Detroit Renaissance.

 

 

District 24 @ Birmingham Marian

GROVES

SEAHOLM

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

NORTH FARMINGTON

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Birmingham Marian

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Southfield Arts and Tech, 2. Seaholm, 3. Birmingham Marian, 4. Bloomfield Hills, 5. Groves, 6. North Farmington.

FAVORITE: Seaholm

NEXT: Birmingham Marian

DARKHORSE: Southfield Arts and Tech

PLAYER ON SPOT: Ella Swanson- Birmingham Marian.

INSIGHT: This is a very interesting district in Birmingham. Birmingham Marian had a tough district with West Bloomfield and Farmington Hills Mercy last season. The Mustangs have McKenley Reid, Ella Swanson, Lauren Billingsley, Katelyn Morgan, Danielle Denha, CeCe Murray, Molly McLeod, Charlie Bingham, and Ruby Jansen coming back for new coach Shane Lawal. Lawal brings a ton of basketball experience to Birmingham Marian including being the coach at Detroit Renaissance. Seaholm has a ton of proven experience after getting to the district finals last season. The Maples have Addy Flynn, Mary Gumbus, Taylor Hartwig, Emma Weber, Sophie Sullivan, Ella Koosis, Addy Kitzman, Jada Josifovski, and Elia Gifford coming back for Coach Chris Manchester. Groves was up and down last season. They has a new coach and a new system heading into the season. The Falcons have Harlem Simpson, Jacey Roy, Rose Strada, Sophie Schwanik, and Micah Smith coming back for new Coach Jessica Duleba. Bloomfield Hills won the district crown last season. The Blackhawks have Brianna Young, Brianna Brooks, and Giselle Haddad coming back for new coach Renardo Brown. North Farmington was very young last season. The Raiders have Jade Spears, Quyaamah Jihad, Shylah Tarin, and Shalaya Rogers coming back for Coach Michael Allin. Southfield Arts and Tech is a team that likes to run and score in bunches, defense is a concern for the Warriors which could be key for a postseason run. The Warriors have Christian Banks, Samiya Ashford, and Jordyn Ushery coming back for Coach Shaquita Coltrane. Overall this district is very interesting, Birmingham Marian is the slight favorite but keep a close eye on Seaholm and Southfield Arts and Tech. They both could make some noise in this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I made some big changes to this district. I'm a believer of Seaholm thus moving them at the top seed at the moment but don't count out Birmingham Marian despite their record and being fourth in the MPR which I don't really understand, the Mustangs are more than capable of winning this district, I kept them at the next line at the moment, I believe in Coach Shane Lawal can turn this thing around really quick. Bloomfield Hills moves to the two spot despite their record but they are still the darkhorse. The Blackhawks need to be careful of Southfield Arts and Tech who I still have questions about. I seen Groves play and they look to be a five seed despite being fourth right now, there are warning signs surrounding the Falcons. North Farmington is locked into the sixth seed but they could have an outside shot of catching Groves. Overall the projected seedings look pretty accurate for now.

ANALYST UPDATE: This district is pretty much insane at the moment. Seaholm has been in a funk which is really dangerous especially with Southfield Arts and Tech riding a boatload of confidence right now after their emotional win over Berkley. The Warriors have the top seed while the Maples have the two seed at the moment which is very uneasy with Seaholm's struggles which includes losses to Groves, Royal Oak, and Rochester. Birmingham Marian, Groves, and Bloomfield Hills are battling for the third seed. Despite the Mustangs struggles they are the most dangerous team in this district. Whoever gets the three seed matches up with North Farmington who is locked into the six seed while the four seed plays the Falcons who is also involved in that battle for the three seed. Both top seeds look vulnerable for upset by those who have to play on Monday. This is a wide open district, crazy things are very much likely.

District 25 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Northern

Lakeland

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. West Bloomfield, 2. Orchard Lake St. Marys, 3. Lakeland, 4. Walled Lake Northern, 5. Walled Lake Central.

FAVORITE: West Bloomfield

NEXT: Orchard Lake St. Marys

DARKHORSE: Lakeland

PLAYER ON SPOT: Amal Younes- Walled Lake Northern.

INSIGHT:  This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on the black top. West Bloomfield is the defending Division One State Champs but they lost a ton of talent from that team but they are poised not to give up their crown. The Lakers have Ava Lord, Sheridan Beal, Breanna Gamble-Jones, Breasia Gamble-Jones, Jordyn Ratliff, Jaylee Head, and London Hall coming back for Coach Darrin McAllister. Walled Lake Northern was up and down last season. The Knights have Amal Younes, Macie Hunter, Brooklyn Zeleny, Adisa Dibra, Skyler Sweet, Eden Van Proeyen, Savannah Scott, Sarah Maktari, and Layne Biggers coming back for Coach Josh Pees. Walled Lake Central was experienced last season. The Vikings have Demi'a Higginbottom and Lillian Miracle coming back for Coach Ken Nelson. Lakeland has Alena Tiernan, Aubrin Miller, Kalie Rhines, Brynn Taliercio, Jessie Liker, Kennedy Canterbury, Molly Farquhar, Leah Willis, and Peyton Baer coming back for Coach Mike Leitheim. Orchard Lake St. Marys comes up to Division One after being in Division Two. They fell 60-57 to Warren Regina in the regional semifinals last season. The Eaglets are loaded with proven talent in Mia Moss, Stella Poota, Layla Stewart, Allie Crighton, Ava Ignoglia, Jessica Asmussen, Hope Richer, Brooke Shockey, Nicole Kolwich, and Reese Holton coming back for former Stoney Creek girls and Adams boys Coach Brad Crighton. This could be the makings of a classic district at the black top in West Bloomfield.

DISTRICT UPDATE: Looking at the MPR rankings these look to be the most sense. Despite West Bloomfield's struggles they have taken over the top seed with the play of Sheridan Beal and London Hall. Their play is the reason the Lakers have the top seed at the moment. The Eaglets are the two seed despite having a very strong record. Lakeland takes the third spot after their win over Walled Lake Northern. The Eagles have shown a huge improvement as of late. The Knights have also played really well but the two losses to Lakeland have hurt. Walled Lake Central is locked into the fifth seed as the Vikings are struggling at the moment. This district could come down to Orchard Lake St. Marys and West Bloomfield.

ANALYST UPDATE: This could come down to the final weeks of the season. West Bloomfield holds the top seed but Orchard Lake St. Marys is right behind them. Also the battle of Bougie Lake is also coming down for whoever gets the three seed and who has to play on that Monday against Walled Lake Central. The Eagles have beaten the Knights twice this season but Walled Lake Northern has the third seed. Whoever gets the third seed looks to play Orchard Lake St. Marys while the four seed plays on that Monday and then gets West Bloomfield in the district semifinals. These next few weeks will tell a lot to where these teams are at.

District 26 @ Swartz Creek

OXFORD

Davison

Lapeer

Grand Blanc

Holly

Swartz Creek

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Davison, 3. Oxford, 4. Lapeer, 5. Swartz Creek, 6. Holly.

FAVORITE: Grand Blanc

NEXT: Oxford

DARKHORSE: Davison

PLAYER ON SPOT: Alison Hufstedler- Oxford.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district between Genesee County, Lapeer County, and Oxford. The Wildcats have Alison Hufstedler, Sophia Rabb, Emma Beggs, Mia Champagne, Tegan O’Connor, Brynley Cardona, Camryn Quidort, Jaylen Jacobsen, Katelyn Brockway, and Claire Bruski coming back for new Coach Trevor Marshall. Marshall is the Wildcats fourth coach in six months. Swartz Creek won 10 games last season and have home court this season. The Dragons have Raeleigh Genoveski, Peyton Camper, Missy Bales, Maddie Pier, Aja Collins, Tatlot Gullett, and Brooklyn Short coming back for Coach Brian Van Buren. Holly really struggled last season. The Bronchos have Ella Azbell, Evelin Spiece, and Adlin Moore coming back for Coach Ben Varner. Davison really struggled winning four games last season. The Cardinals have Mayae Carradine, Gracie Wright, Lilah Pierson, Sammie Beller, Brooklyn Hughson, Brooke Pizzala, Darby Crystal and Savannah Rice coming back for Coach Lauhnna McMahan. Lapeer really struggled winning three games last season. The Lightning have Madison White coming back for their new coach Joseph LoBaido. Grand Blanc went to the Division One State Finals last season. The Bobcats have Parc Liggins, Daya Hartwick, Paige Pittman, Joslyn Lopez, Malaya Brown, and Jordyn Eichelberger coming back for Coach Bob Taylor. The Bobcats stand as the early favorite but the Wildcats have the firepower to match it.

DISTRICT UPDATE: There were some changes to the MPR. Davison has past Oxford but it's still pretty tight. The Cardinals have been an up and down team after a strong start to the season. The Wildcats have played a tough non conference and they are about to go into the Red which I think they will be fine there. The two spot is going to come down to the wire between Davison and Oxford. Lapeer, Holly, and Swartz Creek are locked into the fourth, fifth, and sixth seeds respectably with no one touching the Bobcats for the top seed.

ANALYST UPDATE: This is a really tight district for the two seed. Grand Blanc is locked into the top seed but the battle between Oxford and Davison is very interesting. The Cardinals have the two seed at the moment but the Wildcats are right behind them. Whoever is the three seed will see Holly before having to play the two seed in the district semifinals. Swartz Creek and Lapeer are locked into playing each other with the winner playing the Bobcats in the district. Overall it's going to come down between Davison and Oxford to settle who the two seed will be.

 

District 27 @ Clarkston

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

Waterford

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Clarkston, 2. Avondale, 3. Lake Orion, 4. Waterford.

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Lake Orion

DARKHORSE: Avondale

PLAYER ON SPOT: Charlotte Peplowski-Lake Orion.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district that could be very similar to last season's classic district final between Clarkston and Lake Orion. The Wolves won 41-40 on a buzzer beating layup by Emily Valencia. The Dragons and Wolves are in the Red and both have very tough schedules this season. Avondale was in a different district and had a ton of injuries which was the reason why their struggles last season. They are in the Blue and could be a really dangerous team in the division this season. The Yellow Jackets have Madison Manyweathers, Morgan McPherson, Amaria Daniel, Khaila Bradley, Giavanni Hollie-Jackson, Sasha McClellan, and Janaye Richardson coming back for Coach Roy Christmon. Clarkston is coming off a district crown but have that bad taste falling 44-42 to Grand Blanc in the regional finals last season. The Wolves have the majority of their team in Brooklyn Covert, Elliana Robak, Marley Mazur, Ella Morgner, Ellery Hernandez, Kayla Butki, Lauren Fishtaller, Keira Zorski,and Lexi Fry coming back but incoming players in Brooke Bond and Bella Flavin could be players to watch for Coach Aaron Goodnough. Lake Orion has been very consistent even when they had a down year winning 15 games last season. They were a very young team and has a bad taste in their mouths after falling 41-40 in the district finals to Clarkston last season. The Dragons have Izzy Wotlinski, Charlotte Peplowski, Riley House, and Dani Heck coming back but newcomers Kara Veeder. and Lala Hill are players to watch for Coach Bob Brydges. I've been hearing a lot of rumblings several players who did not play in the summer are back in the fold for Brydges. Waterford Mott and Waterford Kettering were both up and down last season. They combined their girls basketball teams and became Waterford after not having enough players. The new Waterford team will have Payton Smith, Morgan Tassin, Trevino Marissa, Kate Saunders, Natalia Santia, Ahyma Gulley, Juilanna Lemis, and Isabella Badger coming back from Waterford Mott and they have JaNella Barber, Summer Blaine, Ellie Droops, Peyton Eakin, Sophie Munro, Kylee Nickerson, and Ella McCall coming back from Waterford Kettering. They have a new coach in Alyssa Copley taking over the new Waterford team. This district could have the makings of last season but the Yellow Jackets are a likely dangerous third seed. Clarkston is the early favorite but Lake Orion has won a district crown at Clarkston before and is always a threat.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I honestly don't see any changes although Avondale maybe up at arms when I say this. The Yellow Jackets leads the MPR and has a win against Lake Orion but with the Red schedule coming up for the Dragons and Wolves could eat into Avondale's advantage in the MPR despite being in the Blue. Clarkston has played a tough schedule and that record looks very deceiving. The Wolves win over Avondale pretty much locks up the top seed. Lake Orion has gotten a few players back from that Avondale game and has a win over Plymouth Canton which is their best win at the moment. Waterford has really improved but they would have a really tough time against the three mentioned teams. Overall I don't see any changes when it comes to projected seeds and darkhorses.

ANALYST UPDATE: The district matchups are pretty much locked into play. Clarkston will see Waterford while Lake Orion will see Avondale in the district semifinals. No real changes are mentioned at this time.

 

District 28 @ Stoney Creek

STONEY CREEK

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

Utica

Utica Eisenhower

Romeo

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Utica Eisenhower, 2. Stoney Creek, 3. Rochester, 4. Adams, 5. Romeo, 6. Utica.

FAVORITE: Utica Eisenhower

NEXT: Stoney Creek

DARKHORSE: Rochester

PLAYER ON SPOT: Devyn Raymond- Utica Eisenhower.

INSIGHT: This is almost the same district as last season but it's at the same gym. Utica comes into this district after being in a different district last season. They really struggled winning nine games last season. The Chieftains have Katelyn Shtogrin, Kylie Condon, Brianna LeMersie, Brooklyn LeMerise, Violet Smith, and Alexis Petruccioli coming back for Coach Jason Muchortow. Muchortow took over at Utica for legendary coach Tom McDonald who retired two years ago. Stoney Creek made history by getting to the State Quarterfinals winning this district. They had to get by Bloomfield Hills and Macomb Dakota in the regionals but fell 49-27 to Grand Blanc last season. The Cougars have Merrick Schlawbach, Izzy Ivezaj, Calista Ivezaj, Abigail Ivezaj, Mikayla Gendich, Addy Allen, Samantha Fulkerson, Taylor Fulkerson, Sophie Budzick, Jadelynn Freeman, and Jenna Cook coming back for Coach Columbus Williams. Romeo had a great year winning 16 games and is a program on the rise. The Bulldogs have Claire Carmody, Layla Babich, Maya Mosley, Mya Muschong, Samantha Sackfield, and Anna Wesley coming back for Coach Ron LeBlanc. Romeo fell 37-29 to Rochester last season in the district semifinals. Rochester will look to have a bounce back season after a rough year last season. The Falcons have Alice Max, Kylie Robinson, Lucy Cook, Angela Cichowski, Arisara MacDonald, Taylor Parsons, and Erica Procter coming back for new coach Andrew Topie. Utica Eisenhower was very young winning 10 games last season. The Eagles have Gabriella Gojcaj, Lily Pantaleo, Paige Hays, Devyn Raymond, and Tesla Bertoia coming back along with an influx of incoming freshmen led by the Turner twins (Mackenzie and Janelle) for new Coach Madison Ritovski. Utica Eisenhower fell 53-50 to Adams in overtime last season. Adams is hoping to use the postseason from last season as a stepping stone to this season. The Highlanders have Faith Zoldus, Neveah Williams, and Lily Tomahauk coming back for Coach Joe Malburg. This should be a very interesting district to watch that is for sure.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I have Utica Eisenhower as the top seed at the moment based on how they are playing especially the Turner twins who have made a big impact lately. Stoney Creek has looked human lately which is why they are the two seed. Rochester looks locked into the three seed after wins over Lake Orion and Seaholm. Adams is a very dangerous four seed and they haven't been healthy with the injury to Faith Zoldus but the Highlanders have earned the nickname "The most dangerous team in the league" they are more than capable and I moved them to the four seed. Utica is locked into the six seed and Romeo is locked into the five seed. Overall I see four maybe five teams having a shot to win this district.

ANALYST UPDATE: This district has a chance for some movement. Utica Eisenhower looks to be locked into the top seed in the district but the Eagles could also be the most vulnerable because of lack of postseason experience and with the majority of their roster being freshman. Stoney Creek has home court and the two seed for now. The Cougars have to be careful of Rochester who is locked into the three seed and could make a move to the two seed if they keep winning. Adams is locked into the four seed which sets them up with Romeo in the first round which would be really interesting. The Falcons would play Utica in the first round if the season ended. Utica Eisenhower is riding with a ton of confidence but the postseason is a different animal and the possibility of seeing Adams who beat them in the first round in overtime is very real at the moment in the district semifinals while Stoney Creek and Rochester would be a really interesting matchup as well in the district semifinals. Everything looks to be coming into play right now.

 

 

District 29 @ Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK

TROY

TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY

Warren Mott

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Berkley, 2. Royal Oak, 3. Warren Mott, 4. Troy Athens, 5. Troy.

FAVORITE: Berkley

NEXT: Royal Oak

DARKHORSE: Warren Mott

PLAYER ON SPOT: Maci Zeiter- Troy.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on Lexington Blvd. Troy is coming off a strong year winning 14 games but they fell 64-46 to Bloomfield Hills in the district semifinals last season. The Colts have Diamond Prince, Reagan Zeiter, Carly Higginbottom, Olivia Sprangler, Sophia Kaltsounis, Kelsey Block, Aly Matuza, Savannah Oddy, Victoria Siegan, Shavani Angadi, Brianna Bert, and Lizzie Dobbs coming back along with Maci Zeiter coming into the program for Coach Laura Guzman. Troy Athens had a rough year winning nine games last season. The Red Hawks have Yasmeen Dabbish, Alex Link, Katrina Tasich, and Farida Youseff coming back for Coach Stacie Klumpp. Royal Oak has home court and is coming off a ton of momentum making their regional finals last season. The Ravens have Lucy Freytag, Lydia Dickens, Hannah Saunders, Jordan Hills, Vivian Lawrence, and Maddie Lawrence coming back along with an incoming varsity player in Kolbie Roelofs for Coach Brian Sopota. Berkley has been up and coming. They won 19 games and made the district finals falling to Detroit Renaissance 60-29 last season. The Bears have Avery Wintergarden, Maddie Boswall, Katelyn Sills, Nadia Watt, Hailey Kirkwood, Blessing Nweke, Caleigh Tracy, Olivia Church, and Z Diop coming back for Coach Clay Shaver. Warren Mott won nine games last season. The Marauders have Leajah Ferguson, Niah Sims, Aubrie Vojnov, Alyssa Sikorski, Allison Phillips, Conamora Ndana, Addison Brown, Sophie Simon, and Ella Schmidt coming back for Coach Patrick Schmidt. The Colts are favored in this district but the Ravens could have a strong say but watch for the Bears as well.

DISTRICT UPDATE: The MPR looks really different when it looks at this district. I'm a fan of the Bears and I believe in what they are doing. Berkley has done a ton of things right and they have been making a ton of noise. Warren Mott has came out of nowhere and has taken the two seed by storm. The Marauders have won four straight and is gaining a ton of confidence. Royal Oak took a huge dive in the MPR is closer to last with Troy which no one had expected before the start of the season. Troy Athens sits at the third spot at the moment. I expect a ton of changes but the biggest shock has been Warren Mott making the big jump to the second spot at the moment.

ANALYST UPDATE: This is starting to get really interesting. Troy Athens and Troy would be playing in the first round with the winner playing Berkley in the district semifinals. Royal Oak and Warren Mott are battling for the two seed which means they would play each other in the district semifinals. The Ravens could sneak up into the two seed if they keep winning. Either way the Bears are locked into the top seed but Royal Oak and Warren Mott have some company awaiting while Troy Athens is more than capable of catching both the Ravens and the Marauders. Troy is locked into the fifth seed. This is not what I would have expected before the season had started.

 

District 60 @ Hazel Park

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Center Line

Hazel Park

Madison Heights Lamphere

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Ferndale, 2. Ferndale University, 3. Center Line, 4. Madison Heights Lamphere, 5. Hazel Park.

FAVORITE: Ferndale

NEXT: Ferndale University

DARKHORSE: Center Line

PLAYER ON SPOT: Annaya Davis- Ferndale.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district with both Ferndale schools not having to see Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the districts like they did last season. Ferndale University had a rough season going winless with a very young team last season. The Eagles have LeAnna Spencer, Gabrielle Thompson, Kayla Sanders, Taniyah Crawford, Tamary Powell, Kendall Spencer, and Jayda Wilson coming back for new coach Bennie Szczepkowski. Ferndale has completely revamped their team in two years and is in the Red this season after winning 17 games last season. The Eagles have  Annaya Davis, Demi Bolton, Janiya Larry, Masiah Clark, Kathleen DeVillena, and Keyanna McGarrell coming back along with emerging talents in Zahra Richardson and Malia Taylor for Coach Keith Paris. They also added Kamaria Paige who transferred from Southfield Arts and Tech and Gabby Foster from Macomb Dakota this offseason. Hazel Park had a really rough year last season. They have two seniors and several sophomores coming back for Coach Anthony Brown. Center Line really struggled last season. The Panthers have Janiyah Thomas, Sydney Zosel, Jordyn Alexander, Savannah Rietz, Carlie Farkas, Reyonna Jackson, Jaylah Roper, Kaylee Lindsay, and Audrey Harenski coming back for Coach Josh Banks. Madison Heights Lamphere won 13 games last season. The Rams have Faithlynn Donegan, Taylor Dufrense, Emile Eritano, Mya Giffin, Harmony Hays, Emma Malkowski, Sophia Muskery, Faith Stinson, and Jordan Terbruggen coming back for a new coach. The Eagles are the early favorite but the Rams have the experience to make some noise, this could be Paris time to make some noise.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I made some big changes following the MPR. I have to give Ferndale University coach Bennie Szczepkowski a ton of credit for turning around a program that went winless last season and has a winning record. The Eagles are locked into the two seed with how Center Line, Hazel Park, and Madison Heights Lamphere have played this season. I don't think any of these teams including Ferndale University will touch Ferndale despite their non conference and they have to play in the Red. The Red will harden them and I have my concerns surrounding the Eagles as it's been documented in my podcast but not in this district as Ferndale is locked into the top spot in the district.

ANALYST UPDATE: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Ferndale has the top seed in this district but the lack of depth will be worth watching. The Eagles would see the winner of Center Line and Hazel Park who are locked into the four and five seeds in the district semifinals. Ferndale University and Madison Heights Lamphere are locked into the two and three seeds at the moment will play in the district semifinals. No real changes to this district at the moment.

 

District 61 @ St. Clair Shores South Lake

HARPER WOODS

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Warren Regina

Eastpointe

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. St. Clair Shores South Lake, 2. Warren Regina, 3. Harper Woods, 4. Harper Woods Chandler Park, 5. Eastpointe.

FAVORITE: Warren Regina

NEXT: St. Clair Shores South Lake

DARKHORSE: Harper Woods

PLAYER ON SPOT: Sami Thomas- Warren Regina.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Harper Woods has been up and down as of late where they won 10 games last season. The Pioneers have Amari Hutchinson and Laniyah West coming back for Coach LaToya Tate. Harper Woods should have some challengers in this district. Eastpointe won 12 games last season for Coach Deon Woods. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 15 games last season. The Cavaliers have a ton of proven experience including Dania McClain coming back for Coach Wilbur Jones. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy won 10 games last season. The Eagles have Brooklyn Houston, Miyonna Sims, Alzion Williams, and D'Asia McIntyre coming back for Coach Rakeem Beal. Warren Regina comes into this district after winning 13 games in a really difficult Catholic League last season. The Satellites have some proven experience in Sami Thomas, Emerson Holder, Ella Sikorski and Sara Wilking coming back for Coach Joe Charette. The Pioneers are the defending district champs and look to defend their crown but the Satellites will have a strong say that is for sure.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I made some changes following the MPR for this district. I'm really impressed with St. Clair Shores South Lake toughing up their non conference schedule which is why they are in the top seed but Warren Regina is in a really tough league despite their struggles. I noticed Harper Woods Chandler Park is struggling so moved them to the four seed and is locked right now. Eastpointe is locked into the five seed. Harper Woods hasn't played in a few weeks but they have started playing and have looked better, I have the Pioneers as the three seed. Warren Regina is the two seed but they are the favorite to win this district based on strength of league. Overall I think two teams have a shot at this district.

ANALYST UPDATE: This district could be really interesting. St. Clair Shores South Lake has the top seed in the district and will await Harper Woods Chandler Park or Eastpointe in the district semifinals. Harper Woods and Warren Regina look to be locked into playing each other in the district semifinals. This should be a really interesting district as mentioned with three team possibly having a chance to win this district.

District 62 @ Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Macomb Lutheran North

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Detroit Country Day, 2. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 3. Macomb Lutheran North, 4. Pontiac, 5. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood.

FAVORITE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

NEXT: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

DARKHORSE: Macomb Lutheran North

PLAYER ON SPOT: CeCe Arico- Birmingham Detroit Country Day.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district on Giddings Road in Pontiac. Pontiac didn't have the numbers to field a team in the postseason despite their major improvement last season. The Phoenix should be much improved for Coach Christopher Wright. Macomb Lutheran North has Claire Leinberger, Kaylee Ward, Alaina Chandler, Leighton Gardner, Lauren Dean, Sydnee Davis, Grace Tobey, Aubrey Thumm, and Morgan Nyboer coming back for Coach Andrea Tiedt. Waterford Oakdale Prep is a new school that just started competition. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood won 16 games last season and is loaded with proven experience. The Cranes have Haadiya Khan, Maeve Alexander, Madeline Day, Sienna Laverde, Brooke Brown, Dalia Reisner, Trinity Dougherty, Alyssa Luo, Catherine Vaz, and Bella Miceli coming back for Coach Micaela Ellis. Birmingham Detroit Country Day is loaded with proven talent after falling 59-57 in a buzzer beating heartbreaker to Detroit Edison in the regional final last season. The Yellow Jackets have Naiya Krispin, Cece Arico, Jayla Jackson, Sanyiah Blackwell, Ariyanna Wiggins, and Alina Younes coming back for Coach Amber Deane. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep has been solid year in and year out. The Fighting Irish have Sarah Okka, Nikki Voto, Kaylyn Sowers, Ellie Whalen, Adriana Lorenz coming back for Coach Tom Kocik. The Yellow Jackets is the favorite to win this district but keep a close eye on the Cranes in this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I looked at the MPR and went with it. Waterford Oakdale Prep is no longer in this district so it's a five team district. I moved Pontiac Notre Dame Prep to the two line and Macomb Lutheran North to the three line despite the Crusaders having the two seed at the moment. I've been disappointed with Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood with their recent struggles so dropped them to the five seed. Pontiac is the four seed but if they can start winning games they could make a move up the seeds. Overall no one is touching Birmingham Detroit Country Day.

ANALYST UPDATE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day is locked into the top seed in the district and will await Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood or Pontiac in the district semifinals. The Cranes and Phoenix are locked into the four and five seeds although there is an outside chance the Cranes could get the three seed although it's not likely. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood are likely to see each other in the district semifinals. Either way no one is touching the Yellow Jackets in this district.

MHSAA Districts

https://my.mhsaa.com/Sports/Girls-Basketball/2025-Districts

Boys Basketball Districts-Updated

Written Tuesday June 11th at 1:45 AM

Updated Saturday February 1st at 1:40 PM

These are the districts, they will be updated with the most updated information.

This is the bracket formula.

https://www.mhsaa.com/sites/default/files/MPR/2024-25/FINAL-BB.pdf?time=1738430715611

District 22 @ Livonia Franklin

FARMINGTON

NORTH FARMINGTON

Livonia Franklin

Livonia Churchill

Livonia Stevenson

Redford Thurston

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Redford Thurston, 2. North Farmington, 3. Farmington, 4. Livonia Stevenson, 5. Livonia Churchill, 6. Livonia Franklin.

FAVORITE: North Farmington

NEXT: Farmington

DARKHORSE: Redford Thurston

PLAYER ON SPOT: Avi Melster- North Farmington.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district. North Farmington was in the Division One State Finals falling to Orchard Lake St. Marys last season. The Raiders have Avi Melster, Will MacShara, Rob Smith, and DJ Morgan coming back for Coach Todd Negoshian. Livonia Churchill had a really rough year going winless last season. The Patriots have Andrew Creedon, Emmanuel Williams, Diego Cantu, Levi Florence, Alex Mood, Max Shewesing, Jamari White, and Myles Boone coming back for new coach Cameron Scott. Livonia Stevenson has a ton of proven experience in Tyler Hall, Jackson Stoops, Isiah Iacoben, Joe Berry, Jack Woods, Antonio Aiaz, Jonah Waligora, and Iyran Altrack coming back for new Coach John Mackson. Livonia Franklin really struggled in league despite winning 11 games last season. The Patriots have Owen Pittenger, Mendale Broaden, Mark Kiss, Dominic Goines, Kam Webster, Jacob Looish, Thomas Wiwigash, Kameron Dale, and Andrew Mullins coming back for Coach TJ Hurley. Redford Thurston won 14 games last season. The Eagles have Daniel Winston, Nicholas Warren, and Tyler Floyd coming back for new coach Michael Allie. Farmington will look to have a bounce back season after injuries really derailed their season. The Falcons have Darnell Cochrane and Randy Rice coming back for Coach Byron Johnson but they took a hit with the loss of Greg Grays. Grays transferred to Birmingham Brother Rice this offseason. This district should be very interesting to see what happens.

DISTRICT UPDATE: Looking at the MPR, it's kind of messy at the moment. I think North Farmington and Farmington will get the top two seeds but that theory is concerning especially with the Raiders. Redford Thurston has showed resolve in their wins which is why they have the top seed at the moment. There are questions regarding Livonia Stevenson if they can keep this up. Livonia Churchill is also high as well when it comes to seeding. Livonia Franklin looks to be on the outside looking in. It's a tough district record wise. I moved Farmington to the two seed based on their play. North Farmington has struggled so they have been placed at the three seed but they are still the favorite to come out of this district. I don't see how Redford Thurston and Livonia Stevenson keeping up this kind of pace. I think the Falcons and Raiders schedule should help despite North Farmington's recent struggles.

ANALYST UPDATE: Redford Thurston has had an incredible season and looks to be locked in for the number one seed. They could be staring at Livonia Churchill or Livonia Stevenson in the next round which would be a very interesting matchup. If the Farmington schools get the four seed that could be a huge problem for Redford Thurston but as of right now it looks like the Farmington schools could see each other in a district semifinal if things go right. For Redford Thurston they likely could have to see Farmington or North Farmington in a district final.

District 24 @ Groves

GROVES

SEAHOLM

OAK PARK

BLOOMFIELD HILLS

SOUTHFIELD ARTS AND TECH

Birmingham Brother Rice

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Birmingham Brother Rice, 2. Groves, 3. Bloomfield Hills, 4. Oak Park, 5. Southfield Arts and Tech, 6. Seaholm.

FAVORITE: Birmingham Brother Rice

NEXT: Groves

DARKHORSE: Bloomfield Hills

PLAYER ON SPOT: Greg Grays- Birmingham Brother Rice.

INSIGHT: This should be a very competitive district in Beverly Hills. Groves is loaded with proven experience. The Falcons have Jon Simpson, Josh Gibson, Paul Hubbard, Landon McKinney, and David Jones coming back for Coach Marc West. Oak Park has a ton of experience after a tough loss to Groves last season. The Knights have Jason Harris coming back for Coach Durrand Sheppard but they took a hit with their top player Geon Hutchins transferring to Warren Lincoln. Seaholm has a new system and a younger team. The Maples have Everett Wertz, Will Solderwall, Charlie Gorycia, and Cole Baldwin coming back for new coach Spenser Adams. Southfield Arts and Tech will look to have a bounce back after struggling in the White last season. The Warriors have Cameron Dickerson and Trent Green coming back for Coach Terrance Porter. Bloomfield Hills is an up and coming team and is one of those teams that could make noise in the Blue. The Blackhawks have D’Ron Mason, Philip Muhammad, Carter Hartfield, Mason Hitchcock, and Carter Canfield coming back along with an up and coming player in Brandon Bies for Coach Brian Canfield. Birmingham Brother Rice had a really strong postseason run last season. The Warriors have David Williams, Jacob Lamb, Jeremiah Caffey, John Lilley, Logan Hahama, and Trevor Smith coming back. They added Greg Grays who transferred from Farmington along with Landon Ecckles, and Sebastian Thrower who transferred from Louisiana for Coach Ricky Palmer. This district looks like it's Birmingham Brother Rice's district to lose but you never know.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I don't see really any changes with this district. I think the only change will be Southfield Arts and Tech and Seaholm. Oak Park better be careful that they don't fall to the five or six seed. The top three teams are locked into their seeds at the moment with Bloomfield Hills entering the darkhorse column. Birmingham Brother Rice is the favorite but Groves can certainly beat them.

ANALYST UPDATE: The seeds look like they are locked in with the exception of Seaholm and Southfield Arts and Tech. Whoever gets the six seed might have a better first round matchup with Bloomfield Hills then say having to play Oak Park first however that four/five has to see Birmingham Brother Rice while the three/six has to see Groves. This district still looks like it has Birmingham Brother Rice and Groves in the district final written all over it.

District 25 @ West Bloomfield

WEST BLOOMFIELD

Orchard Lake St. Marys

Lakeland

Walled Lake Central

Walled Lake Northern

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Orchard Lake St. Marys, 2. Walled Lake Central, 3. West Bloomfield, 4. Lakeland, 5. Walled Lake Northern.

FAVORITE: Orchard Lake St. Marys

NEXT: Walled Lake Central

DARKHORSE: West Bloomfield

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jayden Savoury- Orchard Lake St. Marys.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district on the black top at West Bloomfield. The defending Division One State Champs are in this district and they are loaded again. West Bloomfield is loaded with proven talent and had a really strong year last season. The Lakers have De'Avion Thomas, Corey Pittman, Brendin Jones, Artis Hicks, Terrance Lowe, Ryan Hood, David Lewis, Jamad Williams, and Chris Britton coming back for Coach Arnette Jordan. Walled Lake Central had a very strong year last season. The Vikings have Frank Knolton, Giovanni Charles, Anthony Camacho, Asa Clay, Garrod Alexander, Preston Dado, Zakira Jallow, Peyton Kassab, and Jake Nellett coming back for Coach Chuck Splonky. Walled Lake Northern was down last season and will look to have a bounce back year this season. The Knights have Ryne Socha, Eli Ryan, Stone Seyburn, Jack Cooper, Michael Hatcher, Tim Awad, Andy Avitia, and Gavin Delaney coming back for Coach Ryan Negoshian. Lakeland will look to have a bounce back year. The Eagles have Nskian Usen, Cole Bromley, Walker Lewinski, Hayden Cross, Nathan Bronka, and Chandler Good coming back for Coach Rob Thompson. Orchard Lake St. Marys is the defending Division One State Champs and they are loaded again this season. The Eaglets have Geon Sheets, Sharod Barnes, Trey McKinney, Isiah Hines, Jayden Savoury, Peyton Kemp, and Aiden Hanks coming back for Coach Todd Covert. Overall this should be a very interesting district, the Eaglets are the favorite but can't count out the Lakers by a long shot.

DISTRICT UPDATE: There were some changes in regard to the seedings. Walled Lake Central is locked into the two seed with West Bloomfield's recent struggles sending them to the third seed. Walled Lake Northern and Lakeland but that is interchangeable at the moment however this district is Orchard Lake St. Marys to lose.

ANALYST UPDATE: There is really no changes to this district. The battle of Bogie Lake (Lakeland vs Walled Lake Northern) is likely going to be the first round matchup with the winner seeing Orchard Lake St. Marys in the district semifinals. West Bloomfield and Walled Lake Central is going to be very interesting in the district semifinals considering the Lakers beat the Vikings in this round last season. Whoever wins that game likely sees Orchard Lake St. Marys in the district finals in what will be a really tough matchup.

 

District 26 @ Lapeer

OXFORD

Lapeer

Davison

Grand Blanc

Swartz Creek

Holly

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Grand Blanc, 2. Oxford, 3. Davison, 4. Swartz Creek, 5. Lapeer, 6. Holly.

FAVORITE: Grand Blanc

NEXT: Oxford

DARKHORSE: Davison

PLAYER ON SPOT: Luke Stoffan- Oxford.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district in Lapeer. Grand Blanc had a deep postseason run where they went to the regional finals falling 65-40 to Orchard Lake St. Marys. The Bobcats have Donnie Huddleson, Isiah McCree, Larryeon Subblett, Malachi Evans, Matthew Evans, Omar Young, Caseton Sendry, Angelo Diedalis, Georgeyon Cannon, and Lawrence Walker coming back along with newcomer Max O'Mara for Coach Dorence Martin. Davison won 17 games but was upset 48-47 by Holly in the district semifinals last season. The Cardinals have Cortez Porter and Jackson Bowden coming back for Coach Mike Williams but they took a huge losses when Danny Wolak (Flint Powers) Amari Blythe and Greg Lawson transferred out of Davison to play at prep schools. Lapeer really struggled last season and will have a new coach. The Lightning have Will Fisher coming back for new coach Jack Chittle. Chittle comes from North Branch but he's very familiar with Lapeer as he was the junior varsity football and baseball coach with the Lightning. Holly has had a ton of success as of late despite losing a ton of talent last season. They upset Davison 48-47 in the district semifinals before falling to Grand Blanc last season. The Bronchos have Bowen Moore and Xander Jacobsen coming back for Coach Steve DeHart. Swartz Creek has been up and down after winning six games last season. The Dragons have Ian Johnson, Boston Koebke, Carson Wistuba, William Gray, Isiah Spencer, Alex Miller, Braylin Stell, and King Powell coming back for Coach Kevin Root. Oxford looks to have a very strong showing this postseason after winning 14 games last season. The Wildcats have a ton of proven experience in Jake Champagne, Drew Cady, Nolan Mauser, Brennan Elling, Jonah Lundeberg, and Luke Stoffan coming back for Coach Joe Fedorchik. This should be a very interesting district to say the least, four teams have a shot to win this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: The MPR has really tighten between Oxford and Grand Blanc despite the record gap. I see the Bobcats taking the top spot in the district based on strength of schedule. I'm surprised Davison is still high despite their struggles and Swartz Creek has a lower MPR than Grand Blanc or Davison despite their record. Overall I don't see any changes when it comes to seeding but the only change as mentioned is that the Bobcats could jump the Wildcats based on strength of schedule despite the unbeaten record Oxford has at the moment.

ANALYST UPDATE: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district final if things go right. Oxford and Grand Blanc are battling for the top spot in the district which means the winner will likely see  the four/five seed with the loser getting the three/six seed. Swartz Creek is in contention for the three seed with Davison struggling. Whoever gets the three seed will have a dangerous first round matchup with Holly and it was the Bronchos that upset the Cardinals last season in the first round. Whoever gets the four seed has a really tricky matchup with Lapeer on the Lightning's home floor in the first round. The Wildcats and Bobcats are the two top seeds which won't change but between those four teams in the first round could be very tricky matchups, both teams have shown vulnerability so right now it's not a lock for an Oxford/Grand Blanc district final, there are some roadblocks along the way.

 

District 27 @ Avondale

AVONDALE

CLARKSTON

LAKE ORION

Waterford Kettering

Waterford Mott

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Waterford Mott, 2. Clarkston, 3. Avondale, 4. Lake Orion, 5. Waterford Kettering.

FAVORITE: Clarkston

NEXT: Waterford Mott

DARKHORSE: Avondale

PLAYER ON SPOT: JaKobe Manyweathers- Waterford Mott.

INSIGHT: This is the same district as last season when Clarkston won the district over Waterford Mott. It wouldn't surprise anyone if a team wins 16 games and is the four seed in this district, it is that loaded. Clarkston was around 500 last season and they are the early favorite in this "Group of Death" district. The Wolves have Hayden Flavin, Cole Charter, Jon Kaul, Doug Schoenfield, Hayden Barrow, Caleb Harmon, Alex Waszczenko, Braylen Weeks, and Quinn Rosenburg coming back along with Shane Dasuqi, Troy Rosenburg coming in and Ace Walters transferred from Birmingham Brother Rice for Coach Tim Waslik. Avondale has had their battles with Clarkston in the past including a 38-37 loss to the Wolves last season and they both are in the Red this season. The Yellow Jackets have Jordan Bush, Jordan Clayton, DJ Moody, Makao Carroll, Isaac Gordon, Javontae Anderson, Braylin Grandberry, Karri Fields, Qualaeb Ross, and Justin Greer-Sykes coming back. They added Jakobe Louris who transferred from Lake Orion this offseason for Coach Jaret Thomas. Waterford Kettering really struggled last season. The Captains have Jordan Jarrell, Nathan Bisnett, Hunter Jager, Trevor Meredith, Hayden Bigelow, Braycen Harrington, Cole Hendin, and Gavin Robinette coming back for Coach Steve Emert. Waterford Mott made it to the district finals and shared the Lakes Valley Crown with Walled Lake Central last season. They could be the favorite in the Lakes Valley this season. The Corsairs have Gavin Ort, Israel Anthony, JaKobe Manyweathers, Damari Stephens, Greg White, Tory Robinson, Nate Lewis, Devin Lewis, and Austin Sheets coming back for Coach Jeff Jayson however the Corsairs took a big hit with a season ending injury to Max Jansenvanvuren who got hurt in football. Lake Orion was very young last season and look to have a strong bounce back year this season as one of the favorites in the White. The Dragons have Zack Parks, Ryan Rocheleau, Gabe Scott, Nick Galben, Jackson Shoskey, Nate Guccione, Steven Butcher, Joey Neering, and Max Neering coming back for Coach Jose Andrades. This should be a fun district, four teams have a great chance to win this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: There are some changes in this district when it comes to the MPR rankings but the messaging remains the same. I took Lake Orion out of the darkhorse column for the moment but they could easily get back into the darkhorse line and maybe go up even higher. Avondale made a statement with a win at Clarkston after a fourth quarter explosion, they also have a win over Groves as well. With those two wins I put them in the darkhorse line which is the three seed. Waterford Mott has played well which included a big time win over Grand Blanc which has them in the top spot at the moment. Lake Orion has battled a ton of injuries but have seemed to put things together. Clarkston will be the team to watch after tough losses to Avondale which sent them to the second spot. Waterford Kettering has made a ton of progress. I think Clarkston is barely the favorite but Avondale, Waterford Mott, and Lake Orion are looming and are more than capable of winning this district.

ANALYST UPDATE: This is the kiss of death district. Four teams have a chance to win this district. Whoever is the four seed is between Avondale and Lake Orion will have to play Waterford Kettering in the first round on Monday which is very doable while the third seed doesn't play on Monday but they have Clarkston on that Wednesday in the district semifinals. I think Avondale and Lake Orion matches up extremely well with Waterford Mott in the district semifinals. Also both teams match up pretty well with the Wolves. The seeds look locked with the exception of the Dragons and Yellow Jackets but that can all change really fast with some big games ahead.

 

District 28 @ Rochester

ROCHESTER

ADAMS

STONEY CREEK

Utica

Romeo

Utica Eisenhower

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Rochester, 2. Stoney Creek, 3. Adams, 4. Utica Eisenhower, 5. Romeo, 6. Utica.

FAVORITE: Adams

NEXT: Rochester

DARKHORSE: Stoney Creek

PLAYER ON SPOT: Logan Pleasant-Rochester.

INSIGHT: This is the same district as last season but it's moved a bit east to Livernois and Walton Blvd. Utica won the district and 22 games last season behind a veteran heavy team. The Chieftains have Jonathan Carter, Cass Rissman, Kellen Condon, Eddy Tolme, and Owen Sulik coming back for Coach David Hinkle. Rochester looks to have a bounce back year after a tough 45-30 loss to Adams in the district semifinals. The Falcons have Max Muhl, Noah Kim, Luke Lower, Anthony Chirco, Kellen Muhl, and Jake Tandy coming back along with a talented freshmen who could make some noise in Owen Trombley for Coach Nick Evola. Utica Eisenhower had their ups and down last season. The Eagles have Trey Richardson, Randall Rice, Alex Edgar, John Hardiman, and Maddox Moore coming back for new Coach Anthony Muscrat. Romeo has been a really interesting story especially in the postseason winning two district games in four years. The Bulldogs have Ben Stojanvski, Salvatore Leone, Austin Habicht, Alex Kelley, and Brody Hare coming back for Coach Marv Cushingberry. Adams is coming off a very tough 66-61 loss to Utica on their home floor in the district finals. The Highlanders are a young team but they have proven experience in Trenton LaGarge, Luke Marcial, and Cannon Flynn coming back for Coach Isiah Novak. Stoney Creek looks to have the biggest pressure on them this season after winning nine games in two years. The Cougars have Gideon Beers, Chritos Marselis, Koby Rauner, Joseph Zoorob, Spencer Beckeman, and Tyree Smith coming back for Coach Jeff Olind. This district looks different on paper but you never know with how this would work.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I don't see any changes in regards to seeding the top four teams. I had a great conversation with Adams girls basketball coach Joe Malburg talking about this district and will go more in depth on the January 27th podcast. Rochester has the top spot and Stoney Creek has the second spot based on the MPR but I think Adams strength of schedule will eventually help them despite falling to Stoney Creek. Rochester has a win over Stoney Creek and has been injury riddled (Jake Tandy.) The only change I made was Utica and Romeo switching with the Chieftains 41-40 win over the Bulldogs but that has changed back after Romeo has won a few games. I've seen all six of these teams play, I think the top four teams are legit, I'm not sure about Utica and really not sure about Romeo. Overall this is an evenly based district with four teams having a legit shot.

ANALYST UPDATE: This should be a fun district to keep an eye on. It looks like Rochester is locked to the top seed and they have home court which is an added bonus. The two seed looks pretty murky at the moment with Stoney Creek. The Cougars have not been playing well in recent weeks and looks really vulnerable. Wherever Adams is who the top seeds do not want to see. The Highlanders have played a tough schedule with life in the Red. Adams is the three seed which means they could see Utica. It was the Chieftains that beat Adams on their home floor in last season's district final. Romeo has somehow been red hot winning five of their last six games to creep into a battle with the Highlanders for the three seed. Utica and Utica Eisenhower are battling for the five seed. Whoever is the five seed would see Romeo and I know the Eagles want another shot at the Bulldogs while the six seed has to deal with Adams at the moment. For the Highlanders having the three seed might be the better path especially with the way Stoney Creek has been playing. The Falcons right now has the best chance right now with the way they are playing.

 

District 29 @ Royal Oak

ROYAL OAK

TROY

TROY ATHENS

BERKLEY

Warren Mott

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Troy, 2. Royal Oak, 3. Troy Athens, 4. Berkley, 5. Warren Mott.

FAVORITE: Troy

NEXT: Royal Oak

DARKHORSE: Troy Athens

PLAYER ON SPOT: Leo Penoza- Troy.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district in Royal Oak. Royal Oak has been a hard team to figure out in the last two years especially starting out strong but struggling during the middle to the end of the season. The Ravens have CJ Hariston, Nick Hoffman, Yurem Patino, and Ethan Cousins coming back for Coach Aaron Smith. Berkley lost a ton of talent from last season but they somehow rebound really well. The Bears have Avery Johnson, Evan Young, Jacob Friedman, Evan Haenick, Sam Niyo, and Kenny Swain coming back for Coach Joe Sermo. Troy looks to be the favorite in this district for good reason. The Colts have Andrew Lake, Leo Penoza, Cung Lian, Colin Bastein, Jack Sobotka, Will De'Armit, and Mason Parker coming back for Coach Gary Fralick. Warren Mott had a really tough year winning three games last season. The Marauders have Asraf Ahmed, Kevin Barden, Juan Chaney, Wesley Gilmore, Markel Green, Martino Hollywood, Siere Keith-Bouyer, Michael Kronner, and Micheal Plater coming back for Coach Gary Tilney. Troy Athens has a new coach and a new system this season. The Red Hawks have Nathan Piggott, Liam Dempsey, Nate Appledorn, Brendan Tucker, and Alex Beaubien coming back for new coach Mitchell Vercellino. This district on paper looks like it's the Colts to lose but anything is possible in this district that is for sure.

DISTRICT UPDATE: This is a weird district to figure out. Troy looks to be locked into the top spot but two through four is a mess. Berkley is a weird team, injuries have hindered the Bears but they haven't played to their potential thus making the change to the four spot despite Berkley beating Royal Oak. I thought about moving Troy Athens to the two line but they have not been consistent so kept them as the darkhorse. I moved the Ravens to the second spot despite their record even though I don't know how they would do in a game against Troy Athens. Warren Mott is locked into the five seed. Overall just followed the MPR rankings which means the Colts are the team to beat.

ANALYST UPDATE: My oh my things have changed considerably. Royal Oak sits in a really nice spot with the two seed and the one seed could be in play if Troy struggles. Troy Athens looks locked for the third seed which means they would see the Ravens or the Colts in the district semifinals. Warren Mott and Berkley look locked to play each other in the first round on that Monday with the winner playing Troy or Royal Oak in the district semifinals. The Bears wouldn't mind playing the Ravens again considering they split their season series. The Colts are still the favorite to win this district but Royal Oak might have a say.

 

District 60 @ Hazel Park

FERNDALE

FERNDALE UNIVERSITY

Hazel Park

Detroit Osborn

Detroit Pershing

Warren Lincoln

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Warren Lincoln, 2. Ferndale, 3. Detroit Pershing, 4. Ferndale University, 5. Hazel Park, 6. Detroit Osborn.

FAVORITE: Warren Lincoln

NEXT: Ferndale

DARKHORSE: Detroit Pershing

PLAYER ON SPOT: DaMarion Bozeman- Warren Lincoln.

INSIGHT: This is the district that has produced the last two Division Two State Champions in Ferndale and Warren Lincoln. Warren Lincoln is the defending Division Two State Champs. The Abes are loaded with proven experience in DaMarion Bozeman, Markus Blackwell, Moses Blackwell, Chris Morgan, Chase Moore, Julian Edison, and Oshay Johnson coming back and have added Geon Hutchins who transferred from Oak Park for Coach Wendell Henry. Ferndale won the Division Two State crown two years ago will look to have a bounce back season. The Eagles have Eden Vinyard, Toriano Adams, Cameron Fraser, Drakkar Washington, Tyler Ruth, Juilan Cardenas, and Dexter Wilson for Coach Juan Rickman. Ferndale University should be much improved this season. The Eagles have Kevin Williams-Jackson, Amere Harris, Tyler Stokes, DeQuan Small, Taiwan Johnson, Antonio Jones, Dontrelle Milton, Devin Moore, and Kody Pippen coming back for Coach Josh Nicks. Hazel Park went through a coaching transition winning seven games last season. The Vikings have Kylen Belton, Douglas Calhoun, Christopher Hana, Maxwell Jones-El, and Jayden Page coming back along with newcomer Jayce Goff coming into the program for Coach Cecil Goff. Detroit Pershing won 12 games last season but they will have a new coach. Detroit Osborn will look to have a bounce back season winning 10 games last season for Coach Anton Bradford. This district looks like we could see a rematch between Ferndale and Warren Lincoln but anything is possible that is for sure.

DISTRICT UPDATE: I made a few changes to this district. Ferndale has bounced back to take the second spot from Detroit Pershing which is way behind Warren Lincoln from the top spot. I don't see the Eagles catching the Abes. I get Coach Juan Rickman wants to play a tough schedule but morale is a concern and I mentioned that on the podcast many times. I kept Ferndale on the second line knowing how capable the Eagles and Rickman are and I feel they could make a run and pass Detroit Pershing. I moved Ferndale University to the four seed past Hazel Park but that could go either way. Detroit Osborn has struggled and thus is the six seed. Overall no changes to the messaging, just the seeds. Warren Lincoln is still the favorite to win this district.

ANALYST UPDATE: Warren Lincoln looks locked into the top seed which means they would see either Hazel Park or Ferndale University in the first round. The Vikings and Eagles are locked into playing each other in the first round at the moment. Detroit Pershing and Ferndale are battling for the two seed. This is significant because whoever is the two seed doesn't have to play until Wednesday in the district semifinals while the third seed has to play Detroit Osborn in the first round on that Monday. Either way whoever gets the third seed between the Eagles and the Doughboys is going to have it rough which means they would see each other with the winner likely getting the Abes in the district finals.

District 61 @ Eastpointe

HARPER WOODS

Eastpointe

Harper Woods Chandler Park

St. Clair Shores South Lake

Center Line

 

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Center Line, 2. Harper Woods Chandler Park, 3. Eastpointe, 4. St. Clair Shores South Lake, 5. Harper Woods.

FAVORITE: Center Line

NEXT: Harper Woods Chandler Park

DARKHORSE: Eastpointe

PLAYER ON SPOT: Jyshawn Lucas- Center Line.

INSIGHT: This should be a very interesting district in extreme southern Macomb County with a few Macomb and Wayne County teams in this district. Eastpointe won 14 games and the district crown last season. They also have home court this season. The Shamrocks have Aaron Bailey and Dalton Davis coming back for Coach Michael Railey. Harper Woods will have a very young team especially with the guards this season. The Pioneers have Miron Bayor, Jaden McDonald, and Curtis Flaug coming back for Coach TaJuan Porter. Harper Woods Chandler Park Academy won 12 games last season for Coach Bobby Thompson. St. Clair Shores South Lake won 11 games for Coach Kurt Wilson. Center Line won 21 games last season and comes into this district. The Panthers have Kameren Broughton, Jyshawn Lucas, Isiah Ashford, Terez Holmes, Caleli Spencer, Brian Kennedy, and Tony Jones coming back for Coach Derrick Walton. Center Line is the favorite but Harper Woods Chandler Park, Eastpointe, and Harper Woods could have strong says in this district.

DISTRICT UPDATE: This is a district where there could be some big changes. I moved Harper Woods to the five seed with their recent struggles which appears not to get any better. Eastpointe and St. Clair Shores South Lake have won seven games and are more than capable of doing more but it depends on the MPR. Eastpointe and Harper Woods Chandler Park move to the second and third seeds respectively. The Eagles are a very interesting team to watch based on their seeding. I think Center Line is the favorite in this district so no changes with them at the moment.

ANALYST UPDATE: This is a very interesting district. Center Line is locked into the top seed and has looked really good all season. It's a three team race for the two seed between Harper Woods Chandler Park, Eastpointe, and St. Clair Shores South Lake. Whoever gets the four seed has to play a dangerous Harper Woods team in the first round and if they get by the Pioneers then plays the Panthers in the district semifinals while the two and three seeds play each other in the same round. It's who gets the two and three seeds are the most important because if they get the four seed which is Eastpointe at the moment then they would have to play on that Monday in the first round against Harper Woods.

 

District 62 @ Pontiac

PONTIAC

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Birmingham Detroit Country Day

Macomb Lutheran North

Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood

Madison Heights Lamphere

PROJECTED SEEDS: 1. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 2. Pontiac, 3. Birmingham Detroit Country Day, 4. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood, 5. Macomb Lutheran North, 6. Madison Heights Lamphere.

FAVORITE: Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

NEXT: Pontiac

DARKHORSE: Birmingham Detroit Country Day

PLAYER ON SPOT: Joe DeCasas- Pontiac Notre Dame Prep.

INSIGHT: This is shaping up to be a very interesting district. Pontiac gets to host the district at Sy Green Gym after being in Division One, they are now in Division Two. The Phoenix have JJ Claudio coming back for Coach Andrew Myers. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep is coming off a really bad taste after losing to Lake Fenton in the district semifinals last season. The Fighting Irish has Joe DeCasas, Nick Fandino, Mark Galle, Micahel Khouri, Nick Kobylecki, Sam Phillips, Sam Stowe, and Colin Whalen coming back for Coach Whitney Robinson. Birmingham Detroit Country Day should be a tough out for anyone. The Yellow Jackets have Drew Bailey, Isiah Marino, Jaidyn Martin, Anthony Carthwright, Blake Murphy, Christian Cast, Kordell Robinson, Evan Singleton, Jack Soble, Chase Kukes, Alex Elia, Dominic Cassise, and Cade Wilhelmi coming back for Coach Darryl Nobles. Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood really struggled last season. The Cranes have Ellis Akpotu, Andy Kim, Aiden Stapels, Finn Duzan, Mashiro Kurosawa, Henry Snee, Charlie Song, Adam Zhang, Vagelis Tzoumakis, and Julius Pitt coming back for Coach Matt Gump. Macomb Lutheran North won eight games last season. The Mustangs have Ben Scheuher, Jake Bullaro, Cameron Head, Jack McMahon, Brody Law, and Andrew Starrs coming back for Coach Jared Bender. Madison Heights Lamphere won 10 games last season. The Rams have Aidan Grzesikowski, Jack Robinson, Aiden Lindsey, Evan Landstrom, Cameron Cross, Jeriemah Ray, and Kaden Johnson coming back for Coach Bobby Robinson. This should be a very interesting district as mentioned, the Fighting Irish and the Yellow Jackets are the favorites but you can never ever count out the Phoenix.

DISTRICT UPDATE: This is an very interesting district. The MPR has Birmingham Detroit Country Day as the four seed. I moved Pontiac Notre Dame Prep to the top seed despite not playing a ton of games but they have a tough schedule ahead of them. I'm really baffled Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood was higher seeded than the Yellow Jackets, I don't see that lasting. Pontiac moves to the two seed with their recent play and they control the Blue at the moment. Other than that no other changes at the moment with Macomb Lutheran North and Madison Heights Lamphere. This district is very interesting to say the leas as mentioned.

ANALYST UPDATE: This is going to be a really tight race for the top three seeds in this district. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Birmingham Detroit Country Day has the two top seeds while Pontiac has slipped to the third seed. If this were the seedings it would mean the Phoenix would play Madison Heights Lamphere in what would be a really tough matchup in the first round which means they would see Birmingham Detroit Country Day in the district semifinals. The four/five matchup looks to be Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood vs Macomb Lutheran North. Four through six looks very interchangeable as does the top seeds. This should be a really interesting couple of weeks to decide the seeds in this district.

MHSAA Districts

https://my.mhsaa.com/Sports/Boys-Basketball/2025-District

 

OAA Basketball Top 23.

Written Saturday January 11th at 9:28 AM

Happy Wildcard Football Sunday, here are the top 23 for basketball for the week.

Boys

1. Avondale 7-5: Yellow Jackets got Clarkston after a rough district semifinal loss last season.

2. Groves 9-2: Falcons seem to have turned things around since their loss to Avondale.

3. Clarkston 9-2: Wolves will be fine despite loss to Avondale.

4. Oxford 11-0: Wildcats have gone unchallenged, will that change the second time around???

5. Lake Orion 6-5: Nate Guccione has been an X factor since not playing against Oxford.

6. North Farmington 6-6: Raiders are as good as Rob Smith takes them.

7. Farmington 9-4: It was a rough week for the Falcons.

8. Pontiac 6-5: JJ Claudio has been the real deal.

9. West Bloomfield 5-7: Lakers defense still an issue.

10. Ferndale 3-9: Talent is there for the Eagles, the results haven't been.

11. Adams 3-9: Highlanders have been really competitive despite record.

12. Rochester 7-4: Max Muhl has been playing with hair on fire lately.

13. Stoney Creek 6-4: Spencer Beckeman has been really consistent lately.

14. Royal Oak 5-5: I need to do a Tom Grossi video to describe the Ravens.

15. Bloomfield Hills 6-5: Blackhawks snapped a losing streak, could that turn things around???

16. Troy 5-7: Leo Penoza has been really good lately.

17. Oak Park 4-3: When the three ball doesn't go the Knights struggle.

18. Troy Athens 3-8: Red Hawks have struggled a bit, which is concerning.

19. Ferndale University 6-4: Eagles starting to put things together.

20. Berkley 3-7: Injuries have hurt the Bears lately.

21. Harper Woods 3-6: Pioneers have been up and down lately.

22. Seaholm 1-9: Maples are better than their record indicates.

23. Southfield Arts and Tech 3-9: Warriors have not been consistent lately.

 

Girls

1. Clarkston 5-5: If the Wolves find a third scorer besides Elliana Robak and Brooklyn Covert then look out.

2. Avondale 6-1: Yellow Jackets need to meet Tom Grossi.

3. Seaholm 7-2: Maples are fine despite loss to Dexter.

4. Stoney Creek 6-1: Cougars really haven't been challenged since the Walled Lake Northern game.

5. West Bloomfield 3-5: Lakers are as good as Sheridan Beal takes them.

6. Rochester 4-3: Could Taylor Parsons be that guard the Falcons are looking for???

7. Ferndale 4-5: Eagles have struggled on the defensive side of the ball the last two games.

8. Lake Orion 7-3: Dragons should make black their road uniforms.

9. Oxford 3-6: Wildcats have gone through a lot with fourth coach in six months.

10. Berkley 6-3: Bears still have a ways to go but they are getting there.

11. Adams 5-4: Reagan Jarrell is a game changer, imagine when Faith Zoldus comes back, look out.

12. Royal Oak 3-4: Ravens had it very rough against Clarkston.

13. Southfield Arts and Tech 5-4: Defense is still an issue for the Warriors.

14. Troy Athens: 5-4: Red Hawks are the perfect Scooby Doo team.

15. Troy 2-6: Welcome back Diamond Prince.

16. Ferndale University 5-4: Eagles didn't win a game last season.

17. Bloomfield Hills 2-3: Brianna Young is starting to get going.

18. Groves 2-6: Falcons are as good as Harlem Simpson takes them.

19. North Farmington 3-6: Raiders are very young right now.

20. Farmington 3-6: Falcons defense has been getting torched recently.

21. Harper Woods 3-3: Pioneers are back playing after a long layoff.

22. Pontiac 2-3: Phoenix have not played a game in 2025 yet.

23. Oak Park 0-4: 38 points in four games is not a recipe for success.

OAA Basketball Top 23.

Written Sunday January 5th at 9:00 AM

Happy new year to all. Here is the first top 23 for the basketball season for 2025.

Boys

1. Clarkston 8-1: Cole Charter was outstanding at North Farmington on Friday.

2. Groves 7-2: Falcons held to their lowest score of the season in loss to Avondale.

3. West Bloomfield 5-5: Lakers defense is still a problem.

4. Avondale 6-5: Maybe the Yellow Jackets do belong in the Red, ask Groves.

5. Oxford 9-0: Brennan Elling has really been the story for the Wildcats.

6. Farmington 9-2: Falcons playing team ball is a winning formula.

7. Lake Orion 4-5: Dragons need to get healthy and soon.

8. North Farmington 5-5: Raiders are 1-5 in their last six games.

9. Ferndale 2-9: Tough schedule has harden the Eagles but morale concerns me.

10. Adams 3-7: Highlanders have shown toughness and grit with everything they can't control.

11. Pontiac 4-5: Phoenix control their own destiny in the Blue.

12. Stoney Creek 5-3: Cougars might have found something.

13. Royal Oak 5-3: Ravens might have found something which is a good sign.

14. Troy Athens 3-6: Red Hawks have been playing much better.

15. Rochester 5-4: Max Muhl has really stepped up his game since the injury to Jake Tandy.

16. Bloomfield Hills 5-5: Something isn't right with the Blackhawks.

17. Troy 3-7: Colts need to find that Robin to Mason Parker's Batman and fast.

18. Seaholm 1-7: Maples have played better despite record.

& 19. Ferndale University 5-3: Eagles have struggled in their last three Blue games.

20. Southfield Arts and Tech 3-7: Warriors have been a hard team to figure out.

21. Berkley 3-5: Bears injury woes have hurt them.

22. Oak Park 2-2: Knights have been a hard team to figure out.

23. Harper Woods 2-5: Pioneers win over Fraser is huge at the moment.

 

 

Girls

1. Seaholm 6-1: Maples look to 2025 with high expectation.

2. Clarkston 4-5: Wolves record is very deceiving.

3. Avondale 5-1: Yellow Jackets look like the team to beat in the Blue.

4. West Bloomfield 3-4: Sheridan Beal has really stepped up for the Lakers.

5. Ferndale 4-4: Eagles morale and lack of depth concerns me.

6. Stoney Creek 4-1: Cougars have won four straight since the Walled Lake Northern disaster.

7. Lake Orion 5-2: If the underclassmen keep developing, look out.

8. Oxford 2-5: Wildcats got most of their team back despite rough start.

9. Rochester 3-3: Alice Max has been on another level lately.

10. Berkley 6-1: Bears could be that challenger to Avondale for the Blue.

11. Royal Oak 2-3: Ravens will be a team to watch in 2025.

12. Southfield Arts and Tech 4-2: Hopefully Warriors addressed the defense issues.

13. Adams 4-3: Highlanders will be fine when Faith Zoldus comes back.

14. Groves 1-5: Falcons got their first win under the Coach Jessica Duleba era.

15. Troy Athens 4-3: Red Hawks have been an odd team to figure out.

16. Troy 0-5: If Diamond Prince comes back look out.

17. North Farmington 3-5: Raiders young group is taking lumps but progress as well.

18. Bloomfield Hills 1-3: Blackhawks looking to 2025 with momentum.

19. Farmington 3-4: Falcons have showed some competitiveness.

20. Pontiac 2-3: Phoenix need to win over teams not with an Academy name on it.

21. Ferndale University 4-3: Eagles are playing much better, record shows it.

22. Oak Park 0-3: Knights will look to get 2025 on the right track.

23. Harper Woods 3-2: Pioneers off court issues still present.